Actor: Thank you.

"Zhang Yuan... Brother, may I call you that?"

Two days later, on the film set in Dalian.

"Shout whatever you want."

"Just call me by my name."

"You can even call me Xiao Zhang, I don't mind."

Zhang Yuan replied to the tall, thin girl in front of him.

The other person seemed timid, chuckled softly, and revealed a set of not-so-perfect white teeth.

"Come, let me introduce you."

Zhang Yuan led the girl around the film set corridor and to Su Youpeng, who was pacing back and forth in the room, silently reciting his lines.

"Oh, this is the friend you were talking about?"

"Call me teacher!" Zhang Yuan deliberately put on a stern face.

"Yes, teacher... hello teacher," Youpeng joked.

Zhang Yuan glanced sideways at the girl's condition.

Perhaps it's because Alec Su's appearance is more approachable, plus he's a celebrity we've watched grow up, that girls are noticeably less nervous around him compared to around themselves.

Because of Su Youpeng's poor performance, Gao Qunshu had a serious talk with him.

Youpeng agreed to Zhang Yuan's suggestion and decided to ask him to help find a Kunqu Opera practice partner.

He said he was a director of the Chinese Quyi Artists Association.

Given his status, he must be well-informed and have extensive connections in the performing arts.

Su Youpeng's thinking is not wrong.

If Zhang Yuan wanted to, contacting several professional Kunqu Opera actors wouldn't be difficult.

But nothing is ever done in vain.

Zhang Yuan would never ask his friend for money; there was no need for the two of them to, and he wasn't short of money himself.

Therefore, he didn't "do it for nothing" because he had other plans.

Because he didn't contact Kunqu Opera artists through connections in the performing arts industry, but instead approached Rong Xingda.

Li Xiaowan was very surprised when she received his call.

During the Chinese New Year, Zhang Yuan said that someone else had "harmed" Chen Kun, and this matter naturally reached Li Xiaowan's ears.

Li Shaohong still didn't believe it, thinking that Zhang Yuan was just making a fuss to clear himself of suspicion.

This is what they mean by "character determines destiny".

People like Li Shaohong are overly domineering, to the point that they tend to listen to only one side of the story.

She only believes what she wants to believe.

As a top agent, Li Xiaowan needs to be relatively "mild," at least on the surface.

Otherwise, there would be no way to win over artists.

Female agents of their generation typically cultivated a "motherly image."

A good mother can be strict, but she must also have a loving side.

So when Li Xiaowan heard this news, she felt that it confirmed her guess.

But I still don't quite understand what Zhang Yuan is trying to do.

After he finished exchanging pleasantries, we started talking about business.

"Teacher Li," Zhang Yuan addressed him quite warmly, without calling him Boss Li or General Manager Li.

"I'm calling today to ask to borrow someone from you."

"Borrow someone?"

“Yes, on my end…” Zhang Yuan explained the situation, and the other party understood.

"Yes, she's in this line of work."

"Yes, I heard about it, which is why I thought of her."

"If you're not too busy and it won't interfere with your work, could you borrow it for a while?"

Li Xiaowan readily agreed, saying she would arrange the time herself.

Then, the pretty young woman in front of me appeared.

"This is Li Xin, the one I was talking about." Zhang Yuan wasn't joking this time; he introduced her very seriously.

"Hello, hello, Professor Li Xin." Su Youpeng bowed and shook hands.

"You're welcome." The girl waved her hand dismissively. "Just call me Xiao Qin."

Why did we ask her to come?

Because they are professionals.

Li Qin is from Suzhou, born in Bacheng Town, Kunshan City, which is under the jurisdiction of Suzhou.

Bacheng has two local specialties.

Firstly, it is the hairy crab.

Bacheng is located on the east bank of Yangcheng Lake.

The hairy crab feast there is quite famous, so it's the perfect place for those who love it.

Secondly, there is Kunqu Opera.

The "Kun" in Kunqu Opera means Kunshan.

Basque is the true origin of this art.

Until the mid-19th century, Kunqu Opera was the national opera.

Before Emperor Qianlong summoned the four major Anhui opera troupes to Beijing, Kunqu Opera was the national treasure.

After this, the Beijing accent took shape and gradually became the mainstream.

The proverb "Nothing is more elegant than Kunqu Opera, and nothing is more quintessential than Peking Opera" has been passed down.

Kunqu Opera is one of the oldest opera genres of the Han Chinese.

But old things aren't necessarily good, nor are they necessarily likable.

The biggest reason why Kunqu Opera has fallen into a state where no one watches it or understands it in later generations lies in its greatest characteristic, namely, "elegance".

The simplest logic is: are there more people who know Renoir, Monet, and Botticelli, or more people who know Aoi, Hatano, and Mikami?

The first three are masters of Western art, very elegant.

The last three digits are... incredibly tacky.

It's mainly tight.

Once something becomes too refined, it can actually hinder its spread.

Just like celebrities.

When news breaks about a female celebrity dating someone, being kept by someone, or having undergone cosmetic surgery, it immediately attracts a great deal of attention and discussion.

But if you donate money or do charity work, few people will pay attention or remember it.

The more vulgar something is, the more people love to watch it.

Kunqu Opera had too high an appreciation threshold and was replaced by Peking Opera.

Peking Opera has been replaced by movies, which have a lower barrier to entry for appreciation.

Movies have been replaced by online videos, which have a lower barrier to entry.

Even online videos were disliked because of their length and were eventually replaced by short videos.

The development of art and literature often follows the natural flow of water downhill.

In order to expand their audience, they voluntarily lowered their standards.

After all, everyone needs to eat; you can't just starve to death while clinging to high art.

Miss Li Xin is truly a young lady now, not even 20 years old yet.

This person, who started learning Kunqu Opera at the age of 11, is a professional Kunqu Opera actor.

It's been seven or eight years now, and the skill level is quite good.

At a young age, he has won many awards in the industry and has been noticed by the Shanghai Kunqu Opera Company.

She has become a rising star capable of playing the female lead, Du Liniang, in the Kunqu Opera classic "The Peony Pavilion".

They basically groomed her to be the next big star.

Furthermore, the profession she learned was not easy; it was called "Guimen Dan" (闺门旦).

It is a branch of the female role, and the so-called "guimen" refers to the image of an unmarried young woman on the opera stage.

Kunqu Opera actors are already few in number, and the requirements for the female lead (闺门旦) are quite high. Their appearance and figure cannot be subpar, and there are even fewer who are pleasing to the eye.

Nature will give special attention to nurturing this rare talent.

It was because of her Kunqu Opera skills that Li Shaohong chose her to film "Dream of the Red Chamber".

She played the young Xue Baochai.

First of all, with such excellent examples already existing, when Xue Baochai is mentioned, everyone's impression is definitely that of Zhang Li, the actress who played Xue Baochai in the 87 version, with her round face, big eyes, and lively yet playful demeanor.

Li Qin is no match for her.

However, Li Shaohong's version has many casting problems; the adult Xue Baochai was played by Bai Bing.

Although Teacher Bai is known as one of the "Four Beauties of Beijing," she does indeed have a good figure and face.

But in this era where beauties abound, her beauty lacks distinctiveness.

In fact, Li Qin, with her background as a young lady in traditional opera, should have played Lin Daiyu better.

Because she was designated as the next generation of Du Liniang by the Shanghai Kunqu Opera Company, the character of Du Liniang is very similar to Lin Daiyu.

However, in Li Shaohong's version, the female lead roles were all taken by people with connections.

The adult Lin Daiyu was played by Jiang Mengjie, and she was heavily criticized after the broadcast, with people saying she didn't look like Lin Daiyu but rather like Du Shiniang.

It implies that she has a worldly air about her and is unsuitable to play the role of the Crimson Pearl Fairy.

The young Lin Daiyu was played by Lin Miaoke.

That makes it even less likely, but unfortunately, they have powerful connections and can even sing at the Olympic opening ceremony.

Zhang Yuan always felt that if Li Qin had played Lin Daiyu, the viewing experience would have been slightly better.

At least she truly possesses a sense of purity and youthfulness, as well as an elegant demeanor cultivated through years of immersion in traditional opera.

"After that, you'll practice with Alec Su every day."

“I’ll take care of all your meals, accommodations, and transportation, since you’re someone I transferred here.”

"No need, I have pocket money," the girl declined.

"Don't refuse, you're a guest."

"One study piece is all you need."

"Hey, I get it."

Li Qin smiled faintly and agreed.

"This girl looks quite pretty."

As he took her to put down her luggage and tidy up the room, Su Youpeng nudged him with her elbow.

"You brought her here, you're not trying to pick her up, are you?" "She looks so innocent, don't do anything reckless and cause trouble."

"Tsk!" Zhang Yuan put his hands on his hips.

"I kindly helped you find a sparring partner, and you still say that to me."

"Why do you suspect I'm going to make a move on a pretty girl just because you see her?" he said angrily.

Su Youpeng put his hands behind his back.

"In the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, before the Battle of Red Cliffs, how did Zhuge Liang persuade Zhou Yu to support the campaign against Wei in order to form an alliance between Wu and Shu?"

"What do you mean?" Zhang Yuan rarely encountered someone who could leave him completely bewildered.

"Zhuge Liang's statement that Cao Cao was going to make a move against the two Qiao sisters deeply provoked Zhou Yu."

Oh, right... Zhang Yuan realized, it was an early form of Zhuge Liang-style telecom fraud.

"Then why did Zhou Yu immediately believe Kongming when he said that Cao Cao wanted to seize the two Qiao sisters?"

Youpeng pursed his lips and said, "Isn't it because Cao Cao has a reputation for liking other men's wives?"

Zhang Yuan: …

Okay, okay, so this is how a top student insults people!

They chirped at me in front of me, even quoting classical texts.

If we weren't such good friends, I would have beaten you up long ago...

"How can you slander someone's innocence out of thin air!" Zhang Yuan replied, arms crossed. "Besides, this girl may not be as innocent as you say."

Su Youpeng didn't know, but he did.

Li Qin started learning opera in elementary school and was also valued by the Shanghai Kunqu Opera Theatre, so her path to university was different from that of ordinary people.

She takes a different approach.

That is, the famous targeted training program!

It was the Shanghai Kunqu Opera Theatre that initiated the targeted training application, sending her to the Shanghai Theatre Academy for further studies.

Yes, it's the Shanghai Theatre Academy again... Why do I say "again"?

She studied at the School of Traditional Chinese Opera affiliated with the Shanghai Theatre Academy, not the usual acting department.

The contract period for targeted training is very long, up to ten years.

After that, he became the leading figure at the Shanghai Kunqu Opera Theatre.

But halfway there, he encountered Li Shaohong and "Dream of the Red Chamber".

Subsequently, she unsurprisingly breached the contract.

He paid off the debt, gave up opera, and switched to the film and television industry.

It can't be said that she did anything wrong.

After all, Yuan Quan, Qin Hailu, and Zeng Li all transitioned from traditional performing arts to film and television.

Like these three, Li Qin possesses a composure unique to those in the performing arts.

Learning traditional opera is a very arduous and tedious task that can temper one's character.

In short, this girl looks innocent, but she's actually quite ambitious.

Hey, how many of the girls who come to the entertainment industry are truly naive and innocent?

Most of them are strong-willed at heart.

This is also why Zhang Yuan asked Miss Li to come.

First of all, Alec Su is his friend and also a business partner he values.

He will leave Huayi, and he will definitely leave Huayi.

Who will you collaborate with after you leave?

Obviously, it could be me.

Su Youpeng's wisdom is not only reflected in singing, dancing, and acting.

Later, when he became a director and producer, almost none of the films he worked on lost money.

Smart people can succeed at anything.

Therefore, it is necessary to provide some assistance and do someone a favor.

Personal relationships are a prerequisite for cooperation.

I need to recruit more talent in order to move forward.

Similarly, Li Xin is also his target.

She will leave Rongxingda one day.

Zhang Yuan made this move not only to make early contact with this young actress, but also to get a feel for Rong Xingda's background.

After the performance that evening, he went to Su Youpeng's room and watched the two of them practice singing together, clapping their hands and playing the clapperboard.

The character of Bai Xiaonian is meant to evoke a delicate and feminine feeling.

At the same time, this femininity must also reveal a touch of strength.

Li Qin accompanied him in singing "The Peony Pavilion," a piece she knew best, in which she played Du Liniang.

The character of Du Liniang herself has a rebellious spirit, which is just right.

"That felt great!"

"I feel like I've come back to my old self a lot."

Su Youpeng is also very hardworking, practicing for several hours at a time.

Zhang Yuan clapped until his palms were red before he finally stopped to rest.

It seems that intelligent people not only rely on talent, but also on hard work and focus that far surpasses that of ordinary people.

Or rather, their extraordinary effort and focus are their talent.

During her break, Li Qin took out two wrapped small gifts from her bag.

"Thank you both for giving me the opportunity to come to such a big production crew and broaden my horizons."

"Even just looking at it makes me feel incredibly lucky."

Wow, Zhang Yuan accepted the gift, thinking to himself that the girl was quite young, but she knew how to handle things.

"Thank you." Zhang Yuan put the things aside.

It's a small gift but a big sentiment; he doesn't really care what the other person gives him.

Having this kind of mindset already puts them ahead of many others.

For example, Li Jinming only gave away a few bundles of scallions during the Chinese New Year, which weren't worth much money.

This caused him to eat pancakes for several days in a row.

But since he had put his heart into it, Zhang Yuan felt that his efforts to take care of her had not been in vain.

That's what human relationships are all about.

"If there's a chance tomorrow, I'll show you around the film set and introduce you to the senior actors and director."

"Oh, thank you!"

Upon hearing this, Miss Li quickly bowed, her ponytail bouncing back and forth, clearly expressing her joy.

Getting to know more people, especially industry experts, is a huge benefit!

"By the way, things haven't been very peaceful in your area lately."

"What's going on with Brother Kun? Do you know anything about it?" Zhang Yuan asked casually.

One of the reasons he sought out Li Qin was to get to know Rong Xingda.

Although as long as you swing the hoe fast enough, there's no corner of the wall that can't be dug down.

However, before officially starting the excavation, firstly, the purpose must not be revealed, and secondly, the preparatory work for excavating the wall must be done well.

Interacting with Li Xiaowan is like using a smokescreen; you have to keep people calm.

Dating Li Qin was preparation for poaching someone else's boyfriend.

Li Xiaowan didn't think there was anything wrong with it at all; in fact, she was quite touched.

They previously introduced Chen Kun to such a prestigious Prada endorsement deal... even though now, after Chen Kun's downfall, he is facing exorbitant compensation claims from Prada.

Now we're giving our young actors the opportunity to meet veterans like Alec Su.

This guy is really good at handling things in Beijing's subway system, so shrewd!

Zhang Yuan's idea was to have Rong Xingda support a few people first, while he gradually got to know them and planted seeds little by little.

For example, right now, whose name should Li Qin read?

Of course it's him.

"I don't know much about Chen Kun's affairs; I haven't had much contact with him."

“There are rumors circulating in the company, but I think they’re just rumors,” the other person replied, looking to the side.

If someone glances to the side while answering a question, there's a moderate probability they're lying.

Zhang Yuan knew that the other party wasn't completely unaware, but he felt it wasn't good to gossip behind someone's back.

Not bad, the person is alright too.

"That's alright, I'll call him myself when I have time."

"You must be tired from singing, take a break."

Zhang Yuan handed her a bottle of water and invited her to sit down.

After thanking her politely, the girl sat down to rest, while rubbing her ankle a few times.

"Not feeling well?" Zhang Yuan pointed to her calf.

"Walking in slippers feels a bit awkward."

"It's also my fault. I've neglected my practice lately, and my power application was incorrect," Ms. Li explained.

"It's alright, I always keep wound medicine on hand."

"I'll give you some in a bit, you can apply it yourself."

Zhang Yuangang paused for a moment after saying this, then changed his words.

"I know some massage techniques."

"I also gave Brother Youpeng a massage on the film set a few years ago."

"How about I apply the medicine for you in a bit, and massage it while I'm at it?"

“Ah…” Li Qin hesitated for a moment, then turned to look at Su Youpeng.

The Fifth Prince nodded: "He's really amazing. Back in our martial arts training days, we would all go to him for massages when we got injured."

"Yes, Gao Yuanyuan, Chen Zihan, Jia Jingwen, I've used medicine on all of them."

"I've pressed them all, I've pressed them all..."

Zhang Yuan almost blurted out something.

The reason he suddenly changed his mind and said he would do it himself was because he remembered something.

Rumors are circulating online that Li Qin's feet are quite pretty.

Although Zhang Yuan doesn't currently have a foot fetish, he wants to challenge his weakness... (End of Chapter)